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10-Apr-2021
My Dad is more anxious about my future than me, and it doesn't help.
I´m a graduate with a job that pays a little above minimum, with my own studio apartment that I rent. My contract for my current job ends in a few months, so I´m on the lookout for a new job. Applying to as many positions as I can find that I think I can do.
My Dad has always been the kind to prepare for most every eventuality. Camping trips, schoolwork, you name it. But he tends to go on literal sermons about anything I´m *not* doing that I *could* be doing to better my financial standing. I have racked up quite a stack of student debt, and along with other bills, yes, has been demanding, but I´ve made it three years in without issue.
Now with this unknown on the horizon, he is laying the sermons on thick. Haven´t found a job? Look in more places. Not getting a job in the field? Better seek out something else to fill the gaps. Got an interview? Why haven´t you researched everything about this company yet? Oh, your current job might swap you to freelance work? Better find a part-time job and put money away now. What does it matter if you´re working 50 to 60 hours a week?
Which, I understand, logically all makes sense and is by far not bad advice. But I´m never doing enough. Basically, until I land a job that can afford everything I´ve said I want in life that includes full benefits, he´s not going to be satisfied with how "secure" I am.
But god dammit, I´m trying. I´m trying. Maybe not as hard as he´d like, but I´m not him. I work full-time, and will do all I can to keep working full-time if indeed my hours are cut. I can make things work. But he doesn´t believe that. Every indication of his says "put everything in your life aside and work like hell to be financially successful if you want any chance of being happy in the future".
Well, guess what, Dad? You´re making me miserable NOW. And there´s nothing I can say when the goal post is always moving.
I have enough dealing with my own anxiety. Don´t force yours onto me.
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